What You Need by Inxs: Story Behind the Song

INXS - WHAT YOU NEED artwork
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About the Song

"What You Need" is a song recorded by the Australian band INXS, from their 1985 album Listen Like Thieves. "What You Need" was the lead single off the album in Australia and New Zealand, while in the US and Europe it was the second single after "This Time". "What You Need" was the band's first American Top Ten hit, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

Meaning Behind the Lyrics

"What You Need" can be interpreted as an exploration of desire and emotional connection in relationships. For many listeners, the song reflects the complexities of longing and the sometimes tumultuous nature of love. The lyrics suggest a search for fulfillment and understanding, illustrating both the urgency and intimacy that can come with such feelings. The energetic rock sound underlines these themes, evoking a sense of passion and urgency that resonates with anyone who has sought to meet their emotional needs or the needs of a partner.

Did You Know?

  • INXS were an Australian rock band formed in 1977 in Sydney.
  • Originally called the Farriss Brothers, the band's founding members were bassist Garry Gary Beers, main composer and keyboardist Andrew Farriss, drummer Jon Farriss, guitarist Tim Farriss, lead singer and main lyricist Michael Hutchence, and guitarist and saxophonist Kirk Pengilly.
  • For 20 years, INXS were fronted by Hutchence, whose stage presence made him the focal point of the band.

Music Details

These details come from the iTunes song listing used for the artwork and metadata match.

  • Album/collection: What You Need / Sweet As Sin [Digital 45]
  • Genre: Rock
  • iTunes release date: October 14, 1985
  • Track runtime: 3:35

Video Snapshot

  • Video title: INXS – What You Need (Official Music Video)
  • YouTube channel: INXS Videos
  • Video published: December 19, 2012
  • Video runtime: 3 minutes, 39 seconds
  • YouTube views when drafted: 9,021,757
  • YouTube likes when drafted: 56,009
  • YouTube comments when drafted: 2,572

Quick Facts

  • Artist: INXS
  • Song: WHAT YOU NEED
  • Album/collection: What You Need / Sweet As Sin [Digital 45]
  • Genre: Rock
  • Reference page: What You Need (INXS song)

Sources

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